Two Nigerian military aircraft are reported to have crashed in Abuja on Friday, local media reports.
The two aircraft according to the PUNCH were taking part in rehearsals for Nigeria’s 58th Independence Day celebrations.
The two aircraft reportedly collided and a crash in the Katampe area of Abuja. One of the pilots died in the incident.
The full extend of injuries sustained by people is yet to be made public. The military says it is still gathering details.
The spokesman for the Nigerian air force, Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola has confirmed the incident.
Daramola earlier wrote confirming “an air incident involving two NAF aircraft taking part in the 58th Independence Day celebrations.”
Minutes later Daramola issued a statement on Twitter saying “It is with a heavy heart that I regretfully announce that one of the pilots who successfully ejected from one of the F-7Ni aircraft that crashed earlier today has passed on.”
It is with a heavy heart that I regretfully announce that one of the pilots who successfully ejected from one of the F-7Ni aircraft that crashed earlier today has passed on. May his soul RIP. Additional details on the incident will be communicated later. Thank you
— Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola (@KunleDaramola3) September 28, 2018
Nigeria is due to celebrate its independence anniversary on Monday, October 1.
Source: Africafeeds.com
